Middleton scores 29, Bucks drop preseason finale in New Orleans

In their final tune-up before the regular season, the Milwaukee Bucks lost their preseason finale against the New Orleans Pelicans 127-113.

With Giannis Antetokounmpo out with back soreness, Khris Middleton led the Bucks with 29 points, making 9 of 16 shots. In his return to New Orleans, Jrue Holiday scored 15 points while Donte DiVincenzo added 14 and a team-high eight rebounds.

Zion Williamson was dominant with 31 points and nine rebounds for the Pelicans, creating even more anticipation for the start of his second NBA season. Lonzo Ball had 19 points and eight assists and Eric Bledsoe added 14 points to help lead the Pelicans to a strong outing in their final preseason game.

“It’s just tight, just a little bit of starting camp and getting in shape and all kind of the normal stuff,” Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said of Antetokounmpo’s back. “I think we’re very hopeful it will resolve and not be any issue.”